Graduation means new beginnings in Freeport

From beginning to new beginnings: Students at the Columbus Avenue kindergarten moving-up ceremony last week patiently waited for their name to be called to receive a certificate of achievement.

Photos courtesy of Freeport Schools

Freeport High School graduates of the class of 2014 proudly displayed their diploma holders. For the list of graduates and photographs from the ceremony.

Photos courtesy of Freeport Schools

Freeport High School’s Class of 2014 launched their mortarboards and celebrated their accomplishments at their graduation, held at Hofstra University on Friday, June 27.

By Susan Grieco

Unique Boyd takes a graduation selfie before receiving her diploma.

By Susan Grieco

Javier Otero, Salutatorian

By Susan Grieco

Karolynn Ellis, Valedictorian

By Susan Grieco

By Susan Grieco

Nicholas Harrison throws his hands up in celebration as he graduates

By Susan Grieco

By Laura Schofer

The Freeport High School class of 2014 celebrated their graduation at Hofstra University’s Davis S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex with family, friends, teachers and administrators who have watched them grow and helped them achieve this milestone.

“Class of 2014, you are leaving a legacy of success, and there is no doubt that you will proudly represent Freeport in your new journey,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. He made note of the academic success and high graduation rate of this class. “The choices you continue to make will shape your present and your future so make good choices, take the right actions and make them from your heart; let your heart lead you.”

Musical features of the program included processional and recessional numbers by the Freeport High School symphonic orchestra, under the direction of Jill Boardman. On the opposite side of the stage, the select chorale, directed by Monique Retzlaff, performed the national anthem to open the ceremony.

The student speeches generated enthusiastic applause, laughter and nostalgia. “No matter where we go and how many miles apart we are, we always have each other,” said class President Esmerlyn Morel. Morel earned many awards, including the New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli 2014 Student Achievement Award.

“We’ll be leaving for college soon, a new chapter of our lives far away from our families,” said valedictorian Karolynn Ellis. “My parents have done everything for me and no words can say how much that is appreciated.” She also made a special shout-out to her twin sister, Kaylinn, who was also ranked in the school’s top 10. Ellis will continue her academic career at Cornell University in the fall.

“On behalf of the Class of 2014, I want to thank all of the teachers, friends and family members who helped us on our journey to where we are today,” said salutatorian Javier Otero. The crowd applauded when he made note of the unwavering support of his mother. Otero starts at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the fall.